RAWALPINDI: Due to the recent spike in cases of Covid-19 in the country, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Hasan Nasir Jamy has directed airport managements to strictly implement standard operating procedure (SOP) to limit the spread of the disease.

He issued these directions while chairing a special meeting with airport managers of the country in Islamabad on Monday.

He said that while the number of Covid-19 cases has decreased considerably, the country could not afford any relaxation in the implementation of SOP at all airports.

“All the airports have been following the SOP in the wake of coronavirus to ensure safety of the passengers,” he said, whilst appreciating airport managers for successfully implementing SOP in airports.

“We cannot afford any complacency in SOP implementation at airports to avoid infection,” he added.

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) also praised the implementation of SOP at all airports in the country.

Airport managers were asked to make seating arrangements inside waiting areas in view of social distancing guidelines.

Mr Jamy also asked for suggestions on how to avoid incidents of bird-hits in the vicinity of the airport.

He was informed that bird shooters are working towards controlling the situation. Managers were directed to ensure the plantation of the maximum number of saplings in their respective areas to contribute towards the prime minister’s 10 Billion Tree Tsunami campaign.

He also directed the heads of all airports to ensure swift baggage delivery to facilitate passengers of all domestic and international flights. “Baggage delivery of the domestic and international passengers at all the airports should not be delayed,” he said.

In response to complaints about the use of laser beams near airports, the meeting was informed that strict action had been taken in some areas where laser beams are being used for commercial purposes at shopping malls.

He said laser beams cause disruptions in flight operations and pose a severe safety risk, directing the concerned department to strictly monitor and curb this practice.

At the end of the meeting, he instructed all departments to issue commendation certificates to all those who have performed extraordinarily in their respective areas.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2020